The plumbing system is the unsung hero of our homes and businesses, tirelessly carrying water and waste to and from our lives.
But while it’s hard to ignore damaged walls, cracked ceilings, or broken roof gutters – this invisible underground network of essential pipes doesn’t quite get the same attention!
Lurking beneath the surface cracked pipes could be forming, so it’s important to look out for any signs. And let us just say, the causes may surprise you…
How do I know if I have a cracked pipe?
If you notice any of these tell-tale signs, we recommend calling in a professional to inspect:
- Your bathtub, sink, or toilet is slow to drain
- Your drains are smelly
- There’s mould growing on your walls
- Waste is pooling in your yard
What Causes Cracked Pipes?
Many of our customers think that tree roots are the cause of a cracked pipe and will immediately hunt for a neighbour’s tree or other offender.
However, the truth is, in 30 years of plumbing, we have only seen three trees that were actually able to crush a pipe or move it enough to enter the pipes!
So, what are the real causes?
Ground Movements – Although we may not be aware of it, beneath our feet, the ground is in constant motion. From natural seismic activities to subtle shifts in soil composition, these ground movements can create pressure on buried pipes. Over time, this pressure can lead to cracks that serve as entry points for a host of problems.
Build-Up Causing Blockages -Given the vast array of things going down our drains, it’s no wonder they can gradually become clogged with debris, grease, and other substances. This build-up not only restricts the flow of liquid but also increases internal pressure, which weakens the structural integrity of the pipes. The combination of blockages and wear and tear can create the perfect conditions for cracks to emerge.
Wear and Tear at Pipe Joints – The joints in our pipes are often the weakest point in the system. As such, they’re susceptible to wear and tear caused by the constant expansion and contraction of pipes due to temperature changes.
As the materials contract and expand, it can lead to small fractures at these joints, which, if left unchecked, can develop into larger cracks. These cracks provide an open invitation for invasive root systems.
Which brings us to trees!
The Role of Tree Roots – Tree roots are naturally drawn to sources of moisture, and unfortunately our pipes can be a prime target. But it’s not really their fault! Rather than crushing the pipes themselves, the roots hunt for tiny cracks in the pipes in search of water, infiltrating them, widening the cracks, and exacerbating the damage. Left untreated, this can lead to significant pipe failure.
How to Fix a Cracked Pipe
Fortunately, with Nuflow Brisbane South, our trenchless pipe relining technology allows us to repair cracked and broken pipes and drains by creating a new structural lining inside the old, damaged pipe.
Traditional PVC lining techniques are not effective in giving long-term protection and stability to your cracked pipe – that’s why they generally only carry a 12-month warranty.
Instead, our patented Nuflow epoxy resin liner is thicker and stronger than PVC as per independent testing. The liner bonds to the pipe’s interior wall, sealing and protecting from further deterioration and dramatically extending its lifespan. So much so, that it comes with a warranty guaranteeing the product for up to 50 years!
The benefits to our technique include:
- No digging, excavating, or destruction required. Our trenchless solution utilises high-definition CCTV cameras and existing plumbing access points to pinpoint exactly what and where the problem is – and fix it – meaning absolutely no disruption or damage to your home or business.
- Adaptable for any pipe configuration including junctions, bends, horizontal or vertical pipes, and diameters ranging from 40mm to 1500m – all in one complete application.
- Restores structural integrity to the original pipe, preventing joint weakening and tree root penetration.
- Gets the job done quicker. Our relining process takes a fraction of the time of traditional re-piping methods.
If a cracked pipe is causing you a headache, get cracking and give our expert South Brisbane team a call on (07) 3277 8401 today!
